THE ROLE OF THE EXTERNAL RESPIRATORY SYSTEM IN THE STRUCTURE OF FUNCTIONAL FITNESS AMONG MILITARY PERSONNEL
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31891/pcs.2026.3.1Keywords:
cadets, functional readiness, spirometry, hypoxic tolerance, cardiorespiratory system, functional reservesAbstract
The article reveals the significance of the functional state of the respiratory system as a key component of the functional readiness of military personnel at higher military educational institutions. The study is especially relevant under conditions of modern military-professional activity accompanied by significant adverse extreme factors. The functional state of the respiratory system is considered one of the leading components of cardiorespiratory support, determining the efficiency of aerobic energy supply, tolerance to physical loads, recovery processes, and resistance to hypoxic influences.
The study analyzed indicators of the functional state of the respiratory system in 60 cadets of the Educational and Scientific Institute of Physical Culture and Sports and Health Technologies of the National Defence University of Ukraine. Spirometry was used to assess respiratory function, including forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in the first second, and the ratio of forced expiratory volume in the first second to forced vital capacity. The Stange and Genchi breath-holding tests were additionally applied to assess hypoxic tolerance and adaptive capabilities. Nonparametric statistical methods were used for data processing. The results showed decreased pulmonary ventilation function, impaired bronchial patency, and insufficient functional reserves of the respiratory system in a considerable proportion of cadets. The obtained data also indicated substantial individual variability and heterogeneity of adaptive capabilities to physical loads.
The analysis proved that spirometry indicators and functional respiratory tests allow a comprehensive assessment of the respiratory system, determination of adaptive-compensatory capabilities, and timely identification of individuals with reduced functional reserves. The obtained data substantiate the feasibility of a differentiated approach to planning cadet training aimed at improving cardiorespiratory function.
Therefore, comprehensive assessment of the functional state of the respiratory system is an important direction for improving the physical training system and increasing the functional readiness of military personnel.
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